Tony Lawrence was a notable musical figure during the 20th century, best known for his role as an emcee and organizer of the Harlem Cultural Festival in 1969. Although not primarily known as a musician, his contributions to music history are significant, as he helped to highlight and promote many prominent African-American artists of the era. His influence extended to various genres, including R&B, soul, and gospel. Lawrence's role in the music industry was less about creating music and more about creating opportunities for musicians to shine.